Reigning European Le Mans Series GTE Champions Beechdean Aston Martin Racing (AMR) are set to take on their second attempt at competing the 24 Hours of Le Mans in just under two weeks time (17th/18th June).

The 24 Hours of Le Mans, now in its 85th year of running, held a single day official test on Sunday 4th June. Andrew Howard, Ross Gunn and Beechdean AMR’s new boy Olly Bryant all took turns at the wheel of the #99 Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTE car on the 13.629 km Circuit de la Sarthe layout. It was an important day for the trio, as they got to grips with the circuit, car and competitors in readiness for race week.

Gunn, who is a rookie at Le Mans this year, was mandated to complete 10 laps of the circuit in order to qualify for the main race. After completing these laps, the BRDC SuperStar set a time of 3.58.885s, which was good enough to place the #99 car sixth in the GTE AM class.

“It was great to be back at Le Mans in our updated Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTE car” Said reigning European Le Mans Series Champion Andrew Howard. “The test was all about learning for us, and we gained valuable information ahead of our return to Le Mans next week. I felt comfortable in the car which is key.”

Gunn commented, “It was a huge honour to drive at Le Mans for the first time. The test proved to be a success as we completed our run plan and I was able to get comfortable with the car and circuit. I look forward to racing with Andrew, Olly and the Beechdean AMR team.”

“It was a thrilling experience driving the Aston Martin V8 Vantage GTE car around Le Mans” Said multiple British GT race winner Bryant. “Having watched the Aston’s thunder around for so many years as a spectator it was great to finally be behind the wheel. I’m now looking forward to continuing working with Andrew, Ross and Beechdean AMR through the race week leading up to the big start on Saturday at 3pm!”

With the race start now just 11 days away, preparations for all 24 Hours of Le Mans competitors are at full speed. To keep up to date on Beechdean AMR’s progress throughout Le Mans week, keep checking the website or follow us on Twitter @BeechdeanAMR or on Facebook at Beechdean AMR.